Review: EVERYBODY’S TALKING ABOUT JAMIE, Peacock Theatre
Photo credit: Matt Crockett
Almost exactly seven years after it originally opened in Sheffield, Everybody’s Talking About Jamie is back in London. Those of us who were lucky enough to see that first production will never forget the impact it had – and that impact that it continues to have with the current production and the new audiences it is attracting around the country during a long tour.
Dan Gillespie Sells, Tom Macrae and Jonathan Butterell created a classic piece of musical theatre when they launched this show on to the scene, and it is remarkable to see its impact working all over again with new audiences. The tour launched in September 2023 (and was reviewed by WEBF then) and continues till July 2024, but is to be seen at the Peacock Theatre till 23 March. On this tour, Jamie New is played by Ivano Turco, a versatile young performer who recently played Bob Marley in the West End. His Jamie follows in the tradition of those playing the role by bringing something new to the portrayal whilst remaining true to the story.
The other main roles are strongly cast, with the magnificent Rebecca McKinnis as Margaret New. She has made this role her own, and her soaring vocals bring the house down, though she is just as effective in the quieter moments. She is ably supported by long-term cast member, Shobna Gulati, as Ray. She revels in the banter as well as providing real heart to the dialogue, underlining the support she gives to Jamie and which helps him to win through.
Talia Palamathanan has moved from an ensemble role to play Pritti, and does so with no hostages taken; it’s a portrayal with depth, understanding and considerable sly humour: perhaps the performance of the night. Also impressive are Giovanna Fletcher, the latest Miss Hedge, and in particular John Partridge as a world-weary but then reinvigorated Hugo. The new ensemble are as good as ever, and easily pass for a typical Year 11 class.
The show is greeted ecstatically, as it should be when cast, production and writing are as one, as is the case here. Much of the success of the show is down to the writing of course, but Kate Prince’s superb choreography is a mainstay of the piece. Always looking as though it belongs on the characters, her work is at the centre of the production.
The press night included a lot of young people, and their response was striking, and showed that the writing is not specific to any particular time; there are perennial issues here. It was telling that nothing produced such a gasp of horror from younger sections of the audience as the moment when Jamie says hurtful things to his mother. Their shock and its expression showed their involvement in the narrative.
It’s a fable of course, not a documentary, and maybe the final reversal of Dean’s attitude is a tiny step too far for believability but by that stage of the performance, we are all just waiting for a happy ending, which is duly delivered.
Everybody’s Talking About Jamie is bringing young people into theatre, helped by the enterprising producers having arranged youth dance workshops with the cast around the UK. When they see the performance, they will be shown the power of theatre and the ways in which connections can be made through music and dialogue. It’s an important and ground-breaking show – but also a truly enjoyable night of exhilaration and joy in the theatre.
***** Five stars
Reviewed by: Chris Abbott
Everybody’s Talking About Jamie plays at the Peacock Theatre until 23 March before continuing its tour. Tickets are available to purchase for London and other select touring venues here.